'Stranger Things' director Shawn Levy's versatile journey with 'All the Light We Cannot See'

Stranger Things' director and producer Shawn Levy is embarking on a new creative journey with Netflix's epic drama, All the Light We Cannot See.

This series adaptation of Anthony Doerr's bestselling novel marks a departure from Levy's usual genre fare and a testament to his versatile talent.

Initially, Levy's plan was to produce the show and possibly direct an episode.

However, after reading the adaptation, he was compelled to take on the challenge of directing the entire series himself.

In an interview with PEOPLE he said, "When I read the first draft of the first episode of the adaptation, my plan was to produce the show, maybe direct an episode, But after I read it, I knew I needed to do it all myself."

Known for his involvement in family-friendly films like Night at the Museum and producing the wildly popular Stranger Things, Levy's choice to direct All the Light We Cannot See reflects his commitment to projects that have a warm heart at their core.

Despite the variety in his work, Levy sees a common thread in the emotional depth of his projects.

The series tells the story of a blind French girl who finds sanctuary during World War II and forms a remarkable connection with a reluctant German soldier.

The adaptation stays true to the novel's narrative, which spent an astounding 200 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller list and sold 15 million copies.

Levy compares the experience of creating this period drama to making a long, four-hour movie.

Set in Saint-Malo, France, and Budapest, the series, All the Light We Cannot See, which is available for streaming on Netflix presents a fresh visual style and performances with a unique tone, diverging from Levy's previous work.